UFC News: BJ Penn Will Serve No Jail Time

UFC superstar BJ Penn will not have to serve any jail time for assaulting a Honolulu police officer, almost two years ago. The court today sentenced Penn to one year of probation and a $2000 fine. The court also stated that it will allow BJ Penn to travel to Newcastle, England for his fight with Joe Stevenson at UFC 80 on January 19.

BJ Penn was arrested May 8, 2005 for striking a police officer outside an crowded nightclub. The officer was one of two uniformed officers at the club, who were providing security for a Rumble at the Rock after party hosted by BJ Penn brother. Penn could have faced a maximum five years in prison for the first degree felony.

Mixed-martial arts superstar B.J. “The Prodigy” Penn, 28, was sentenced today to one year probation and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution for hitting a Honolulu police officer during a melee outside of Waikiki bar two years ago.

As part of a no-contest plea agreement with prosecutors, Penn must also abstain from alcohol, submit to substance abuse treatment, perform 50 hours of community service and submit to random drug and alcohol tests.

If he abides by the conditions for a year, the offense will be removed from his record.

Penn apologized for his actions and said he is eager to put the incident behind him.